Angie Slagle
Angie Slagle, CRNFA, is a seasoned surgical professional and author based in Fort Worth, Texas. She began her medical career in 1990 as a surgical technologist and earned her BSN from Texas Christian University in 1995. After achieving her CNOR certification in 2003, Angie pursued her RNFA credential and became a Certified Registered Nurse First Assistant in 2021. With over three decades of experience in the operating room, she has specialized in general, orthopedic, obstetrics, gynecology, and gynecological oncology procedures, providing expert patient care and first-assisting surgeons with precision and compassion. In addition to her medical career, Angie is the author of The Boy That Could, an inspirational children’s book that chronicles her son’s journey and her unwavering commitment to never giving up. Through her writing, podcast interviews, and media appearances, she shares her personal story of perseverance and advocacy for children with Intellectual & Developmental Disabilities, offering hope and encouragement to families navigating similar challenges. Her volunteer work history extends globally with Operation Smile and locally with Special Olympics, Make-A-Wish Foundation and Taste Project, reflecting her deep commitment to service and community impact. Angie is also the founder of the Young Abled Adults Group, a nonprofit dedicated to providing social and recreational opportunities for young adults with special needs in Fort Worth. Inspired by her own son, the organization has quickly grown to serve over 60 families, partnering with Texas Christian University, YMCA, and local businesses to provide programs such as cooking classes and social events. Balancing her medical career, authorship, and nonprofit leadership, Angie continues to inspire through her dedication to patient care, advocacy, and empowering others to overcome challenges.
• Certified Surgical Assistant
• CA-SANE Certification
• Certified Registered Nurse First Assistant (CRNFA)
• Texas Christian University - BSN
• Young Able Adults (YAAG)
• Operation Smile
• Special Olympics Texas
• Make-A-Wish North Texas
• Taste Restaurant
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to the incredible surgeons I’ve had the privilege of working with. Their mentorship and support, combined with my dedication and strong faith, have been the foundation of my career. Working with people who inspire and challenge me has allowed me to grow, build a strong reputation, and continue thriving in this contract-based field.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I ever received came in the early days of pursuing my goal to become a first assist. I was nervous and unsure, but the encouragement I received from colleagues in the nursing field made all the difference. They believed in me, guided me, and consistently reminded me that I was capable and smart. Their support gave me the confidence to step up, embrace the challenge, and grow in ways I never imagined.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The biggest challenge in my field has been establishing our non-profit. Without a team to lean on, I’ve had to learn and adapt as I go, figuring things out step by step. The greatest reward, though, is seeing the impact on the young adults and hearing parents say we’re making a difference. There’s a real need here in Fort Worth for activities that engage neurodiverse young adults, and building that social connection has been both challenging and incredibly fulfilling.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Faith and family are at the heart of my life and work. I find meaning in supporting patients through prayer and reassurance, and my son’s journey inspired me to create a nonprofit for young adults with special needs. Nursing is my passion, and it drives my commitment to this community.